Western Trout

The Smith River, Montana - A Hosted Trip by Max Salzburg

Max Salzburg October 28, 2025

Plain and simple, the Smith River is a masterpiece. One of the most sought-after float trips in the country, it offers a chance to leave the rigors of civilization behind and enjoy the best of what nature has to offer.

Towering limestone cliffs, deep pools, fast riffles, abundant wildlife, and fantastic fly fishing for wild browns and rainbows make this a trip of a lifetime.

PRO Outfitters' Smith River adventure is a five day, four night float covering 61 miles of pristine water through remote country. Join Fly Water Travel’s Max Salzburg for what promises to be a fun and memorable journey down this legendary Montana river.

The trip takes place in late May, a bit early by some standards, but this is prime time for water levels. While it’s a high-risk, high-reward window, it’s also when serious anglers most want to fish the river. There’s always a chance the weather will be unsettled or the water high, but any trip down the Smith River, under any conditions, is among the greatest overnight float and fishing adventures on the planet.

This trip is perfect for adventurous anglers who can go with the flow, prepare for variable weather, and want to experience one of the most spectacular places on Earth.

Dates: May 24–29, 2026

Availability: 7 spots available

Rate: $6,000 per person, based on shared tent and shared guiding (4 nights / 5 days)

Included: Accommodations and meals on the river, camping gear, beer, wine, mixers, non-alcoholic drinks, and transportation to/from the river.

Not Included: Airfare, accommodations and meals other than the float trip, gratuities, hard alcohol, and fishing licenses.

Itinerary
May 24, 2026: Arrive in Helena, MT. Overnight at the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel (not included in package).

May 25: Transfer at approximately 6:30 AM to Camp Baker put-in. Full day of guided fishing. Overnight stream side.

May 26–28: Three full days of guided fishing. Overnight stream side.

May 29: Final day of guided fishing. Take out at approximately 3:00 PM, returning to Helena around 5:30 PM. Overnight (not included in package) or depart.

May 30: Depart Helena.

Contact: Max Salzburg - Western Trout Destinations Manager

Max is Fly Water Travel's Destination Manager for Europe, New Zealand, and the trout fisheries of the Rockies and Pacific Northwest. The joke within Max's family is that he has always been a tour guide at heart who loves nothing more than traveling to new places and being a stranger in a strange land.

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Smith River Float Trips

Plain and simple, the Smith River is a masterpiece. One of the most sought-after float trips in the country, it offers a chance to leave the rigors of civilization behind and enjoy the best of what nature has to offer.

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